About 167 manhole covers were stolen overnight in the Poinciana service area and investigators said they have no idea where they are or who might have taken them.

Customers and employees living, working or driving in the area are advised by officials to proceed with caution, while driving or walking.

Toho Water Authority crews and the sheriff's office said authorities are busy covering the holes with plywood until they can get more covers.

The holes range from 3 feet to 12 feet deep, crews said.

While crews work to protect the community, the sheriff's office is looking into the thefts.

The 80-pound manhole covers are made of ductile iron, which is a more flexible form of cast iron. They cost about $141 each.

In all, it will cost nearly $25,000 to replace all of the stolen covers.

Officials are asking citizens to please report any missing manhole covers to the Toho Customer Service Center at 407-944-5000.

Residents who spot any suspicious individuals working near manholes or removing the covers are asked to call 911 immediately.